(RE) INTRODUCING ROYAL TAILOR

November 11, 2013

Typically, it takes a band a few years to get their
footing, build a fanbase large enough to garner the attention of labels and
promoters, and subsequently landing a major tour. Suffice it to say Royal Tailor
is atypical…in more ways than one.

Clearly, their talent, style and performance are on
par with the biggest names in the business. But what distinguishes Royal Tailor
from others is their foundational premise that music is ministry and ministry
can change a hurting world. One of the few interracial groups in CCM history,
they have been forthright and bold with their message of unity and love. Their
sophomore record (released Oct. 22) encompasses these passions with a sound
that’s relevant, contagious and on par with any artist in any genre. CCM sat down with the guys to hear more about the music
and where they’re headed next.

What prompted you to make your sophomore project
self-titled?

We were really excited about our first album Black & White, but we feel like this new album
really showcases who we are as Royal Tailor. So, what better way than to
self-title and let the songs deliver the messages, themes and who we truly are!

You've garnered the attention and have had the privilege
of working with some amazing people. What has been the most surreal experience
you've had?

One that has been surreal for us was working with
live show producer, Adam Blackstone, for our Winter Jam set. He has worked with
everyone from JayZ to Rihanna and recently, Justin Timberlake. From
there, Winter Jam, in itself, was something that was very surreal. To have the
opportunity to play in front of more than 550,000 people around the US and help
encourage them was something that can’t be described.

You've said yourself that church is still the most
segregated institution in the country (which it is). Do you feel that you guys
can make a difference there? What are your goals in terms of equality and
reconciliation?

We feel that we can play a huge part with our music
in influencing today’s culture. Our new album is centered around tearing down
the walls of politics, prejudices, etc. In saying that, it’s also about
building bridges so that we can all come together as a group of believers and
better this world.

Having now performed in front of thousands, what do you
think are some of the most pressing issues for young people today and what are
you doing to encourage change?

We have found, from traveling around the world that
our culture is in a serious identity crisis and always searching for the next
thing to fulfill its needs. We feel that our lyrics and lifestyle can help
inspire people to be who God has called them to be—not what others claim they
should be or attain to be.

Where did your name come from?

There’s a quote that says, “Jesus led with the heart
of a servant, but served with the heart of a king.” So with the name Royal
Tailor, we give honor to God, who’s the King of Kings and who constantly fixes,
mends and adjusts our lives on His behalf. We are super blessed to be able to
share our lives with our fans through this next album (which just released
October 22nd) and we hope that someone’s life will be changed or inspired for
the greater. That’s why we are here and why we are doing this!